Heart Art 2012 still accepting art submissions: How you can participate

Giving to charity when you're an artist may seem like a catch-22. After all, many emerging artists could use some charity of their own. But Heart Art Denver has made it possible to give back to the community by donating a piece or art to their 18th annual AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Design) Colorado Heart Art Charity Event. Submissions are accepted until February 3, and coordinator Felix Sanchez explains the details.

"We are looking for local artists who would be willing to donate unique pieces of work to our event," explains Sanchez. "Heart Art is in its 18th year, and it's been a long-standing event within our organization and we're in partnership with Project Angel Heart. When artists submit work, their piece goes up for show during the event and is a part of the silent auction. We will set a minimum bid and a 'buy it now' price."

The proceeds of the silent auction go to AIGA, to help with their support of local design artists, professionals, and students, and to Project Angel Heart, an organization that provides meals for those who are home-bound due to life-threatening illnesses.

The event's theme for this year is food -- in honor of Project Angel Heart and the foodie Denver scene. Named "Feast of the Senses," the event, which takes place on February 9, 6 p.m. - 10 pm., at Artwork Network, features dishes and libations donated by local restaurants and breweries, like Margs Taco Bistro and Odell Brewing Company. Aside from auctioning off art, AIGA will also be auctioning off donations from local businesses.

Sanchez says to keep the food theme in mind when submitting art, but not to let it limit the content. "Because of the name is 'Heart Art,' the submitted art was meant to incorporate that, but we've broadened the scope," he says. "We want artists to focus on Valentine's Day, romance, food or the community. But really, any artist can submit any type of artwork. We're only encouraging them to follow within the themes of our event."

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